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Keto Buffalo Cauliflower Crunch Bites – Spicy, Crispy, Low-Carb Snack

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into 1.5-inch florets (about 6–7 cups)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1/2 cup finely ground almond flour
  • 1 cup crushed pork rinds (fine crumbs; measure after crushing)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (helps with crispness)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (for tossing or spraying)
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot-style)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar or apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
  • Celery sticks, for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the florets. Trim cauliflower into evenly sized florets, about 1.5 inches each. Rinse and pat very dry. Dry florets equal better crunch.
  2. Heat the oven or air fryer. Oven: preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment. Air fryer: preheat to 390°F (200°C).
  3. Mix the coating. In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, crushed pork rinds, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Stir well.
  4. Whisk the egg wash. In another bowl, whisk eggs and heavy cream until smooth.
  5. Coat the florets. Dip each floret in the egg wash, let excess drip, then roll in the dry mixture. Press gently so the coating adheres. Place on the prepared pan or air fryer basket.
  6. Add a touch of oil. Drizzle or lightly spray the coated florets with avocado oil. This boosts browning and crunch.
  7. Bake or air fry. Oven: bake 20–24 minutes, flipping once at the halfway mark, until golden and crisp at the edges. Air fryer: cook in batches 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp and browned.
  8. Make the buffalo sauce. While the bites cook, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in hot sauce and vinegar. Keep warm. Taste and adjust heat or tang to your liking.
  9. Sauce and finish. Transfer hot cauliflower to a large bowl. Pour over the buffalo sauce and toss gently to coat. For extra crunch, return sauced bites to the oven/air fryer for 3–5 minutes to set the glaze.
  10. Serve. Plate with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks. Sprinkle a pinch of salt if needed and enjoy immediately.